Online store design – tips for beginners 

A well-designed online store presents the most significant opportunity for companies to capture customer’s attention. However, amidst the multitude of options, standing out isn’t easy, particularly when issues arise with our store. It’s a fundamental aspect we must prioritize, but what steps should we take to design the perfect website for our customers? How to navigate the website to create the best experience for our visitors? 

Define your target group

First and foremost, we need to define our target group, mission, and style. If we’re unsure of our identity, our customers will be even more so. Who are our customers? What preferences, desires, and expectations do they have regarding the companies they opt to purchase from? These are fundamental questions we must address at the outset of the design process because, basic as they may seem, they are the most crucial. Without understanding our niche, we cannot build a prosperous store. 

Choose the right colors 

Selecting the right page colors would be one of the simplest tasks.  After all, they’re just colors, aren’t they? However, the truth is, when designing on an international scale, it can become quite tricky. Cultural differences may not be immediately obvious, but upon closer examination, we begin to realize that a color perceived one way in one culture may be seen entirely differently in another. While some general facts may be known, it’s worth investigating how our target group perceives specific colors.

 

Anatomy of Colors 

There are a few essential facts to consider when selecting the right colors. The basic tool to assist you with this is a color wheel. With its help, you can grasp color theory, avoiding mistakes that could lead to unnecessary stress and uncertainty. By utilizing it, you can opt for safe color choices and ensure a pleasing visual experience for your customers. 

To ensure you achieve the perfect combination of colors, utilize tools that can assist you in this process. Websites such as Coolors.co, Colorspace, Adobe or Canva color palette generators provide features to generate a palette of colors tailored to your specific requirements. 

Optimize your search bar and website 

Page loading 

In today’s world, we’ve grown accustomed to the convenience of accessing nearly everything within minutes. We grab our phones, browse, and place orders effortlessly. Few things are as aggravating during online shopping as slow-loading carts, as those precious seconds can mean losing a customer. 

Search bar 

Similarly, the search bar is paramount. Many visitors arrive at a website with a specific purchase in mind, only to struggle in locating it. This frustration often leads them to seek alternatives elsewhere. Hence, a flawlessly optimized search bar is pivotal for crafting a user-friendly website interface. By anticipating your clients’ needs, understanding their queries, and promptly addressing them, you can save your customers valuable time—ultimately, the most crucial aspect. 

That’s why it’s essential to remember to incorporate useful filters and functions. Be the one who anticipates your clients’ needs before they do. 

Make the navigation system easy and convenient  

The same applies to an efficient navigation system. While creating a visually appealing design is gratifying, remember that the most important aspect is to establish a space where your clients feel secure and inclined to make a purchase. This is a shared objective for both parties: your customers desire to buy an item, while you aim to sell it. They must understand how to navigate your website. Although sophisticated and creative ideas may garner appreciation from your clients, ultimately, instead of selling products you end up only with “what a beautiful website” comment. 

Having a beautifully designed website is undoubtedly advantageous, but throughout this process, it’s important to remember that clarity and effectiveness should be the top priorities. 

Perfect product presentation 

We’re well aware of the significance of colors, navigation, and the search bar, but what about the products themselves? The answer is simple: better product presentation leads to better revenue. We’re visually driven consumers; when comparing products, we’re more likely to choose the one presented in a favorable light. Whether it’s clearer images, comprehensive descriptions, or even product videos, these details often play a significant role in capturing and retaining customers’ attention. 

Test and Analyze 

The best way to determine what is functioning effectively on your website and how your visitors interact with all its features is by analyzing data and customer behavior. There is no better method for this task. Utilize tools that assist in identifying what is functioning optimally and what needs improvement, test your conclusions, and then iterate the process. Utilize tools such as Google Analytics, Hotjar, Mixpanel, or Mouseflow to capture patterns of behavior that will enable you to create the best possible user experience. 

At the heart of it all lies understanding 

Collecting all pertinent information and determining the optimal online store interface requires one key piece of advice: listen and observe closely. See the experience through customers’ eyes. E-commerce interface design is not an easy task, especially when we have a thousand products on our website. Yet, it’s essential to recognize that even seemingly minor details can significantly impact user experience. By prioritizing customer interaction and respecting their time, we can uncover valuable insights that enhance overall satisfaction.  

Let’s face the truth. Is there anything better for an e-commerce platform than a returning customer?